Every business owner, no matter how small, must keep good records. But whether it’s keeping track of mileage, documenting expenses, or separating personal from business use, keeping up with paperwork is a seemingly never-ending job.
No matter how good your intentions are in January, the chances are good that by now that paper mileage log is looking a bit empty. Even worse, you could be avoiding tracking your mileage altogether–and missing out on tax deductions and credits that could save your business money at tax time.
The good news is that there are a number of phone applications (apps) that could help you track those pesky business miles. Most of these apps are useful for tracking and reporting expenses, mileage and billable time. They use GPS to track mileage, allow you to track receipts, choose the mileage type (i.e., business, personal), and produce formatted reports that are easy to generate and share with your CPA, EA, or tax advisor.
Here are three popular apps that help you track your business mileage (and more):
1. TripLog – Mileage Log Tracker
Works with: Android and iPhone
What it does: Tracks vehicle mileage and locations using GPS
Useful Features:
- Automatic start when plugged into power or connected to a Bluetooth device and driving more than five mph
- Reads your vehicle’s odometer from OBD-II scan tools
- Syncs data between the web service and multiple mobile devices
- Supports commercial trucks including per diem allowance, state-by-state mileage for IFTA fuel tax reports, and DEF fuel purchases and gas mileage
2. MileIQ
Works with: Android and iPhone
What it does: Keeps track of mileage for business or personal use
Useful Features:
- Budget-friendly automatic mileage tracking
- Easy to categorize trips – swipe right for business trips; swipe left for personal trips
- Ability to create customized weekly mileage reports
- Premium Office 365 subscribers can log unlimited drives every month.
3. Hurdlr
Works with: Android and iPhone
What it does: Tracks mileage, as well as expenses and income streams
Useful Features:
- Tracks business mileage using auto start and stop
- View real-time finances, profits, and tax savings
- Links to financial accounts, PayPal, Uber, and others
- Creates financial reports and spreadsheets you can send to your CPA
If you have any questions about using apps that track business mileage or need help choosing the right one for your business needs, don’t hesitate to call.